Taxidermy Truths

Taxidermy Truths | Episode 50 | Shows Feedback

The US shows in 2026 confirmed it: the hunting industry is alive and thriving.
A renewed energy is evident, with hunters young and old continuing to invest in wildlife across Africa and beyond.
Doug recently attended DSC and SCI in Atlanta and Nashville. In this episode of Taxidermy Truths, he shares insights from the show floor and what lies ahead for the 2026 season.

Taxidermy Truths | Episode 49 | Conservation by the Bullet

Conservation by the Bullet.
A recent article published in the Daily Maverick, highlighting the numbers of hunted animals in South Africa has sparked debate over the last few weeks. 
In this episode of Taxidermy Truths – rather than negating the viewpoint, Doug draws a comparison between the hunting industry and the Mohair industry, to highlight the similarities in conservation outcome and economic impact on South Africa. 
This is the outlook of the hunter, the taxidermist and the industry that adds tremendous value to conservation of wildlife in South Africa.

Taxidermy Truths | Episode 48 | Year in review

2025 has been an incredible year in the hunting industry, in South Africa and across the world. 
In this year’s the final episode of Taxidermy Truths – Doug provides us with a wrap up of 2025.
From tariffs and legalities to increasing hunting numbers and advances in technology, Doug unpacks some of the challenges and wins over the last year. 
To every listener, partner or follower – we are grateful for your incredible support. We can’t wait to bring you more stories, more information and more Taxidermy Truths in 2026.

Taxidermy Truths | Episode 47 | Skullies

Small skulls that are making a big impact on the hunting industry. 
On this episode of Taxidermy Truths, Doug sits down with the team from Skullies. 
Skullies create exact replicas of real skulls – in miniature, making them the ultimate safari souvenir.
The team from Skullies share what they have learnt over the last few years as the brand has grown and developed. They discuss the ever-changing 3D technology and the process of creating these incredible products from start to finish. Learn more about the inspiration for the collection and how you can create your own custom mini skulls.  
Little skulls and big dreams – you don’t want to miss this.

Taxidermy Truths | Episode 46 | Tagging

Tagging might seem like a small step in the hunting and taxidermy process - but it’s one of the most critical.
From the moment an animal is harvested, every part must be tagged correctly: species, body part, and the hunter’s full name. Proper tagging not only ensures that trophies are legally compliant for export, but also that each hunter receives their correct memories back.
But tagging doesn’t stop in the field. In today’s digital age, how we “tag” our hunting photos online matters just as much. Thoughtful, respectful sharing reflects both the ethics and heritage of hunting. 
In this episode of Taxidermy Truths, Doug unpacks both sides of tagging - the physical process that keeps everything above board, and the digital one that shapes how hunting is seen around the world.
Tune in and learn how to get the tagging right - in the field, and online.

Taxidermy Truth | Episode 45 | Only in SA - Petrol Attendants

We are wrapping up Heritage month in South Africa – and we’re excited to launch the third episode of our Only in SA series on Taxidermy Truths. 
South Africa has a culture of service, epitomized by the gentlemen at our gas stations that help us get back on the road safely. In this episode, Doug chats to a man with a uniquely South African occupation. Morren is a petrol attendant with a love for people and a heart of gold. 
This one will put a smile on your face – don’t miss it!

Taxidermy Truths | Episode 44 | Only in SA Part 2

This week on Taxidermy Truths, we are diving into part 2 of our Only in South Africa series. 
If you have hunted in South Africa, you would have been accompanied by the incredible men of the bush that are able to spot an animal from miles away, expertly follow their movements and handle the quarry with absolute care once the animal is down. Doug chats to Melikhaya Faxi, a seasoned tracker and skinner, to understand a bit more about his role in the hunting experience in South Africa.

Taxidermy Truths | Episode 43 | Only in South Africa

Only in South Africa!  
This episode of Taxidermy Truths is something a bit different. 
Doug steps out of the taxidermy and into the taxi and chats to a South African taxi driver. The driving force behind the South African economy – taxis enable millions of South Africans to get to their places of work each day. 
Come along for a bit of perspective and a few laughs – this is one you don’t want to miss.

Taxidermy Truths | Episode 42 | Preparing For The Hunt

The right gear can make or break your hunting experience. 
In this episode of Taxidermy Truths, Doug chats to Ryan Efurd - the founder of technical hunting apparel brand – Canis. 
They discuss important considerations when choosing your gear, common mistakes hunters make and epic personal experiences in the mountains and in the bush. They also dig into the history of the Canis brand, what it means to be “purpose-built” and some of the technical aspects of hunting apparel development.
What a privilege it is to chat to an industry leader like Ryan. If you’re a “gearhead” or you want to learn more, you don’t want to miss this.
To see some of the rugged adventures the Canis team have been on, testing their products – check out Canis Athlete on socials.

Taxidermy Truths | Episode 41 | Truth be Told

Truth be Told - your taxidermy questions answered.
We get a lot of questions about taxidermy coming through our channels. 
In this Q&A episode of Taxidermy Truths, Doug tackles some of your most common (and curious) taxidermy questions. Listen in for some practical advice, expert insight, and a few surprising truths about taxidermy.
If you have a question of your own, drop it in the comments or send us a DM and we will cover it in a future episode.